Program Director - Temporary Worker

Job Description: TEMP ROLE ASAP – 12 week engagement Anticipated 40 hours per week Hourly, Non‑Exempt on Dentsu Payroll, W2 Remote or Hybrid depending on Location Work in EST Time Zone with some flexibility Must be US Based Company Description Merkle, a Dentsu company, powers the experience economy. For more than 35 years the company puts people at the heart of its approach to digital business transformation. A recognized leader in digital transformation and commerce, experience design, engineering, marketing, data science, CRM and loyalty, Merkle operates in 30+ countries with 16,000 employees worldwide. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Temporary Program Director to lead transformational marketing initiatives for our premier client portfolio while driving excellence across our program management practice. This senior leadership role requires a strategic and operationally sophisticated professional who can oversee one or more high‑stakes programs, develop organizational capabilities, and serve as a trusted advisor to client executives. Key Responsibilities Program Portfolio Leadership Direct a portfolio of enterprise‑level marketing programs for one or more Fortune 500 clients Define program vision, objectives, and success criteria in collaboration with client executives and agency leadership Establish comprehensive program roadmaps that integrate multiple workstreams across digital transformation, customer experience, data analytics, and technology implementations Ensure programs align with client business strategies and deliver measurable ROI and business impact Lead program steering committees with senior client stakeholders, facilitating strategic decision‑making and governance Manage program interdependencies, risks, and resource conflicts across the portfolio Delivery Excellence & Governance Partner closely with Creative, Strategy, Data & Analytics, Technology, and CRM leadership to ensure integrated program delivery Oversee end‑to‑end program execution ensuring deliverables meet quality standards, timelines, and budget parameters Implement robust governance structures including escalation protocols, change management processes, and risk mitigation strategies Monitor program health through comprehensive dashboards tracking scope, schedule, budget, quality, and client satisfaction metrics Conduct regular program health assessments and implement corrective actions to address challenges Ensure compliance with agency standards, client requirements, and regulatory obligations across all markets Lead crisis management and issue resolution for high‑impact program challenges Facilitate post‑program retrospectives capturing lessons learned and best practices Financial & Resource Management Manage program budgets ensuring profitability targets are achieved Oversee resource planning and allocation across programs, optimizing utilization and capability deployment Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and program profitability Operational & Process Excellence Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance delivery quality, team productivity, and client satisfaction Establish and refine program management methodologies, tools, and templates aligned with industry best practices Implement and optimize technology platforms supporting program planning, execution, and reporting Create standardized frameworks for risk management, change control, and quality assurance Required Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or related field required 12 to 15 years of progressive program/project management experience in marketing, advertising, consulting, or digital agencies is a MUST 4 to 6 years of people management experience Proven track‑record managing complex programs valued at $5M to $15M+ individually Extensive experience with enterprise‑level clients and multi‑year strategic initiatives Deep understanding of US and international market dynamics and client expectations History of delivering programs that drive significant business outcomes and client satisfaction Leadership Competencies Exceptional leadership presence and influencing skills, comfortable engaging with senior executives Outstanding communication skills across written, verbal, and presentation formats Experience leading through ambiguity and complexity in matrixed organizations Demonstrated emotional intelligence and ability to navigate challenging stakeholder situations Technical Expertise Expert‑level knowledge of program management methodologies including Waterfall, Agile, Scrum, and hybrid approaches Advanced proficiency with program management platforms (Monday.com, Workfront, Asana, Jira, Smartsheet, or similar) Comprehensive knowledge of integrated marketing channels: digital, social, mobile, and email Agile/Scrum certifications (CSM, SAFe, etc.) and leading teams in Agile methodology Extensive experience at recognized marketing agencies or top‑tier consulting firms Background in management consulting or digital transformation Location & Working Hours United States – Remote (further location requirements subject to hub availability). Must be US based and work in the EST time zone with some flexibility. Compensation & Benefits Hourly pay range: $73.32 to $120.00. Paid holidays in accordance with dentsu policy, safe and sick time. This temporary position is not eligible for additional benefits or compensation beyond the hourly rate. EEO Statement Dentsu is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. We do this without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, political affiliation, religious practices and observances, citizenship status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Dentsu is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to, among others, individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. #J-18808-Ljbffr Dentsu Aegis Network Ltd.